It’s very important to make that distinction because many times people opt for what they see on TV shows or in magazines — and not for what makes the best sense for their needs.

Quite often before main bathroom remodels, people ask if they need a tub. I ask if they would use the tub and what they want to see in their new space and they say they’d prefer a shower and no tub . . . “Tubs are too much to clean and we are not bath people.” Shortly after this decision is made, I hear “You know what, we need to put a tub in for re-sale, so let’s go with a tub.” I shake my head — do what’s right for you!

Renovators and builders are here to create the space that will keep you loving your home for as long as you live there, with minimal renovation required aside from major lifestyle changes. Sure, design trends change, color schemes are reimagined . . . one thing rings true, though, and that is how you will use your space.

Do you have young kids who may need that tub space, do you yourself enjoy a good soak, or do you just want a quick shower before rushing out the door? Do you spend most of your time outside and would it make good sense to invest more into a backyard oasis? Would it be ideal to spend more on a lower-level space for guests and save on upgraded finishes upstairs? Make a list of your most important current needs and needs that may come as your family grows or uproots from the nest. In other words, take a big-picture view of needs to know where to focus your efforts and finances.

We are working with clients now who opted not to include the extra expense for 9-foot ceilings, despite today’s trends, because they love the coziness their existing space provides. They just want to optimize it for their current life situation. This is an example of a couple that does not bend their needs or desires to the will of the masses.

Renovators and builders spend much time trying to gather this insight from people to help them into their optimal space and it always surprises me how people want to conform to perceived social standards. I understand that re-sale is a consideration, however homeowners might be surprised to know there are a lot of people who also don’t want tubs – just as an example. If this is your forever home, plan it to love it.

The nice part about renovating is that you have already lived in your home and can appreciate your way of working within it, which allows you to recreate the space to fit exactly how you live. When building new, it is ideal to check out a few model homes and imagine yourself living in that space for the next number of years, if not forever. Paint schemes can excite you to purchase and new cabinetry is super-inspiring for cooking in your new space. Look beyond this and imagine yourself there, even after the space needs re-painting.

A great home for you will inspire you each day you step inside. Many new homes have a lot of these things considered and are geared for today’s living. There are also plenty of options for anyone from beginning or established families, to empty nesters.

Prepare with a plan and imagine yourself in that space for many years. With a good list of considerations, you will feel it when you enter your forever home.

Peder Madsen is president of the London Home Builders’ Association and co-owner of CCR Building and Remodeling in London.